CVE-2007-0787 in Simple Invoices
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in controller.php in Simple Invoices before 20070202 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the (1) module or (2) view parameter. NOTE: some of these details are obtained from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/09/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-0787 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the Simple Invoices web application, a PHP-based invoicing system that was widely used in small business environments. This vulnerability resides in the controller.php file of the application and affects versions prior to 20070202, making it particularly concerning given the widespread adoption of this invoicing solution. The flaw manifests when the application fails to properly validate user input parameters, specifically the module and view parameters, which are directly incorporated into file inclusion operations without adequate sanitization.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the application's improper handling of dynamic file inclusion mechanisms. When an attacker supplies a malicious URL in either the module or view parameter, the controller.php script processes this input directly within a file inclusion context, typically using functions like include() or require(). This pattern creates a classic remote file inclusion vulnerability that falls under CWE-88, which specifically addresses the improper validation of input that is used in a file inclusion operation. The vulnerability allows attackers to inject arbitrary PHP code that gets executed on the server, effectively providing remote code execution capabilities.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it enables attackers to execute arbitrary code on the affected server with the privileges of the web application user. This remote code execution capability can lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and the establishment of persistent backdoors. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires no authentication to exploit, making it a prime target for automated attacks. Attackers can leverage this flaw to deploy web shells, steal sensitive financial data, or use the compromised server as a launch point for further attacks within the network infrastructure.
Security practitioners should note that this vulnerability aligns with several tactics described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly those related to command and control operations and privilege escalation. The vulnerability can be exploited through the initial access phase using techniques such as web application exploitation, where attackers leverage the insecure file inclusion to gain a foothold. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including updating to the patched version of Simple Invoices, implementing input validation at the application level, and using web application firewalls to detect and block malicious requests containing suspicious URL patterns. Additionally, the principle of least privilege should be enforced by running web applications with minimal required permissions and implementing proper input sanitization to prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in other applications.